Iowa is a state that often goes overlooked. However, it’s more than the corn and Field of Dreams. There are some fantastic national parks in Iowa. Two to be exact: Effigy Mounds National Monument and Herbert Hoover National Historic Site. They both have so much to offer visitors, but before you go, here are some things you should know about these national park sites in Iowa.
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Table of Contents
Map of Iowa National Parks
Complete List of National Parks in Iowa
The national parks in Iowa are little-known highlights in a great state. These national parks offer visitors a chance to explore the state’s history, nature, and more. Read on to plan your trip to the Iowa national parks.
Effigy Mounds National Monument
One of only two national parks in Iowa, Effigy Mounds National Monument protects sacred ground.
The mounds of Effigy Mound National Monument are shaped like animals and other figures. Visitors can enjoy the national park’s trails, educational programs at the visitor center, all year long weather permitting (though some roads may be closed during winter).
There are also opportunities for visitors to take part in: hiking along scenic paths with an educational hike led by a ranger; taking part in programming at the visitor center; visiting all year round (though some roads may be closed) no matter what time of year you plan on traveling.
In addition to close-up views of the effigy mounds, hikes in the park also bring visitors to beautiful overlooks of the Mississippi River.
This park also gained fame in recent years for a scandal that took place. The national monument’s former superintendent was accused of taking artifacts from the park. You can learn more in the documentary In Effigy.
How to Get There: Click here
Map: Click here
Things to Do: Guided tours, picnics, hiking, museum
Park Entrance Fee: None
Where to Stay: Cobblestone Inn, Trickling Waters Retreat
Official Website: Click here
Speak to a Park Ranger: (563) 873-3491 x123
Herbert Hoover National Historic Site
Herbert Hoover National Historic site is the only national historic site in the state of Iowa. It preserves three buildings associated with America’s 31st President, Herbert Hoover, in his birthplace and hometown of West Branch. Visitors to the national historic site will find the presidential library, national archives, and presidential museum.
The national historic site also has a visitor center where visitors can explore interactive exhibits about Herbert Hoover’s life and presidency. Visitors can also purchase national park souvenirs or explore exhibits where they can learn more about the nation’s past.
The national historic site is known for its museum that displays Herbert Hoover’s personal effects and other artifacts. The national park also includes the presidential library, which has collections of his speeches, papers, gifts he received while serving in office, and some of his family memorabilia.
Furthermore, this site tells the story of Herbert Hoover from birth to death. You can visit the cottage he was born in, pictured above, and the graves of him and his wife.
Visitors can take part in self-guided tours at their own pace or they can take a guided tour with a ranger. If you plan on taking a guided tour, make sure to check ahead of time for availability.
How to Get There: Click here
Map: Click here
Things to Do: Visitor center, museum, picnicking, self-guided tours
Park Entrance Fee: None, however, there is a fee to enter the museum (more information)
Where to Stay: Days Inn
Official Website: Click here
Speak to a Park Ranger: (319) 643-2541
Pin the National Parks in Iowa
While these are the only national parks in Iowa, they have a lot to offer visitors. From hiking trails, lessons learned, and former presidents, the Iowa national parks tell unique and important stories. We hope this post has helped you plan your trip to these amazing places.
